3 Common Design Questions…And Answers by Inner Piece Interiors
In a world with Pinterest, Houzz and thousands of design and product websites, it is easy to get overwhelmed and confused. With all of the information out there, it seems that there are a few common questions that come up over and over again. There is no such thing as 100% right or wrong in design, but there are helpful guidelines.
1) Do wood tones need to match in the same space?
Matching wood tones is a thing of the past! Wood floors (Hardwood/Engineered/Laminate/Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)) have made tremendous strides and now offer variations in color, widths, texture, pattern, and style. While there are no hard and fast rules, there are a few tips to consider when mixing wood tones in your home.
- a) Compliment the undertones of the wood. Choose either cool or warm tones, but not both. Not sure how to tell? Put a few samples next to each other. You should be able to see the underlying colors come through.
- b) Be considerate of the graining. If one of your woods has a distinct grain or texture, mix it with a wood that has a more subtle texture. Using stained and painted woods together is an easy way to achieve this look. A rustic piece of furniture against sleek wood floors adds interest and texture to the space.
- c) Repeat your accent wood at least twice, but stick to the 80/20 rule. Your main wood (usually floors) should be about 80%, with your accent wood about 20%. Feel free to add in another wood as a “pop” here and there.
2) What is the perfect paint color for my home?
When selecting paint colors for a home, try to create a color pallet that can be implemented throughout the home. Your common space (kitchen, living room, dining room) should all complement each other. Ask yourself: how do you want your house to feel, are you conservative or bold, do you like to change your décor out frequently? The answers to these questions will determine if you choose a single neutral color or a bold color. Can’t find the perfect color? You can have one customized just for you! Just be sure you look at it in the space (not just the paint store), and in all types of light (overcast, sunny, at night with the lights on…etc). The best part? It is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to change your space!
3) What are the most popular countertops homeowners are choosing?
(Article adapted from: HGTV) (Photos provided by other)
Here’s a wrap-up of workspace surfaces and how they stand up in the kitchen environment. Keep in mind, countertops may dictate the kitchen design and are sometimes chosen before cabinetry.
Granite. Riding a wave of popularity for the last several years as the surface for countertops, granite is available in several grades, generally 1 through 5 (ratings depend on where you buy it), patterns, colors and thicknesses. Depending on what you choose, a slab can cost you anywhere from $25 per square foot for modular pieces of very basic to upwards of $1,000 per square foot. Thickness can really drive up the cost. If you want granite on a budget, you might consider a three-quarter inch thick slab rather than an inch and a half slab, where you’re more likely to get your money back at resale.
Engineered stone. These are your quartz surfaces composed of 93 percent quartz particles and available in a larger range of colors than granite. Quartz seems to be quickly gaining momentum as the go to countertop option. Prices are comparable, but can sometimes be more than granite. The nonporous surface resists scratches and stains, and manufacturers generally offer a warranty. Brands include Cambria Quartz, Silestone, CaesarStone, LG Viatera and DuPont Zodiac.
Laminates. The surface, frequently referred to by the brand-name Formica, is plastic-coated and available in a range of colors—including surfaces that resemble granite. If your budget is tight and you’re doing a quick-and-dirty kitchen overhaul, this is a solution within reach. You’ll have to weigh the resale pros and cons: Does your home value require granite or quartz? Wilsonart 180FX is a fantastic option for a true-to-scale granite pattern!
Solid surfaces. Otherwise known by the popular brand-name Corian, solid surfaces offer the same seamless look as engineered stone, except these are not resistant to stains and can scratch. (You can always sand those out—but do you want to?)
Thank you to our wonderful guest blogger and designer Mindy Hoppe, ASID with Inner Piece Interiors!
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